Directed energy innovation takes aim at defence and biomedicine

The Purdue invention is said to use composite based non-linear transmission lines (NLTLs) for a complete high-power microwave system, eliminating the need for multiple auxiliary systems. According to Purdue, interest in NLTLs has increased because they offer an effective solid-state alternative to conventional vacuum-based, high-power microwave generators that require large and expensive external systems. These include cryogenic electromagnets and high-voltage nanosecond pulse generators.

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NLTLs have proven effective for applications in the defence where they create directed high-power microwaves that can be used to disrupt or destroy electronic equipment at a distance. In the biomedical field the same technology can be used for sterilisation and non-invasive medical treatments.

"We created a new NLTL device that reduces the bulkiness of current options and offers new opportunities to protect our country and help patients in a man-portable form factor," said Andrew Fairbanks, a Ph.D. student and graduate research assistant in Purdue's College of Engineering. "In engineering, we are concerned about size, weight, power and cost. Our invention helps address all of these."